Dave Butch Kee

Dave M. "Butch" Kee, 78, of Magnolia, Arkansas, passed away on February 24, 2026.

Born on May 16, 1947, in Warren, Arkansas, Butch was the son of the late Dave and Kathy Cowell Kee. He grew up in Fordyce, Arkansas, where he built lifelong friendships and strong roots that shaped the man he would become.

Butch retired from Great Lakes Chemical in El Dorado after many years of dedicated service. Known for his strong work ethic and steady presence, he was a man who believed in providing for his family and serving others faithfully.

On June 20, 1970, he married the love of his life, Carol Miller Kee. For 55 years, they built a life centered on faith, family, and devotion to one another. Together they raised two sons, Jeff Kee and wife Cindy of Springdale, Arkansas, and Josh Kee and wife Bekah of Arkadelphia. He was a proud grandfather to Shelby Kee, Rhett Kee, and Allison Summey, and a cherished great-grandfather to Harry and David Summey.

Butch was a man of many passions. He loved car races and was well known around the area for his blue Chevy II Nova. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time outdoors, but nothing meant more to him than time with his family. He especially loved grilling and cooking for special gatherings, church events, and family celebrations. A devoted member and deacon of Immanuel Baptist Church in Magnolia, his faith was the foundation of his life. He was also a former member of the Derrick City Good Sams Camping Club, where he formed many treasured friendships.

Butch will be remembered as kind, hardworking, and deeply devoted to his family. He was steady, dependable, and always willing to lend a hand. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the love he shared so generously.

He is survived by his wife, Carol Miller Kee; his sons, Jeff Kee and wife Cindy of Springdale, and Josh Kee and wife Bekah of Arkadelphia; his grandchildren, Shelby Kee, Rhett Kee, and Allison Summey; and his great-grandchildren, Harry and David Summey.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Juanita Herrington and Mary Ballard; and his brother, Donald Kee.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 26, at Lewis Funeral Home in Magnolia. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, February 27, at Immanuel Baptist Church in Magnolia, officiated by Bro. Bo Stevens and Bro. Brad Justice. Burial will follow at Salem Baptist Cemetery in Stephens, Arkansas.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Immanuel Baptist Church.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff and administration of The Springs – Magnolia for their care and support over the last four years.